Smart home technology continues to revolutionize the way we interact with our homes, and one of the most popular and effective upgrades you can make is adding a smart doorbell. Among the top choices is the Arlo Essential Doorbell, a feature-packed device that offers HD video quality, two-way audio, motion detection, and seamless integration with Google Assistant and Alexa.
If you’ve decided to take the plunge and add an Arlo Essential Doorbell to your home, you’ve come to the right place. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through every step of the installation process for both the wired and wireless versions of the Arlo Essential Doorbell. Plus, we’ll offer troubleshooting tips and tricks to ensure your device works flawlessly from the start.
Before we get started, here’s an link to purchase your Arlo Essential Doorbell: Buy Arlo Essential Doorbell Now
Let’s dive right in!
What You Need to Install the Arlo Essential Doorbell
Before you begin, gather all the necessary tools and equipment to make the installation process as smooth as possible:
- Arlo Essential Doorbell Kit (wired or battery-powered)
- Screwdriver (for mounting)
- Drill (for wired version)
- Level tool
- Measuring tape
- Smartphone (with Arlo app installed)
- Existing doorbell wiring (for wired version)
- Wi-Fi connection
- Chime (for wired version)
- USB cable for battery charging (battery-powered version)
If you are installing the battery-powered version, you won’t need to worry about wiring. However, for the wired version, make sure you’re prepared to connect the device to your home’s existing doorbell wiring.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing the Arlo Essential Doorbell (Battery-Powered Version)
If you’ve opted for the battery-powered version of the Arlo Essential Doorbell, the setup process is fairly straightforward. Here’s how to get it up and running:
1. Select the Ideal Location for Installation
Begin by choosing the best location for your Arlo Essential Doorbell. It should be positioned at a height of about 4-5 feet from the ground for optimal video capture and two-way communication. Make sure it faces your front porch or walkway, and avoid obstructing the camera’s view with objects like plants or furniture.
Use a level to ensure the doorbell is mounted straight.
2. Charge Your Arlo Essential Doorbell
Before mounting the doorbell, make sure the battery is charged. Plug the doorbell into a USB charger and let it charge for a minimum of 30 minutes to an hour. A fully charged battery should last up to several months, depending on usage.
3. Install the Mounting Plate
Take the mounting plate included in the kit and position it on the wall at your desired location. Use the screws provided to attach the mounting plate securely to the wall. Again, make sure the plate is level so the doorbell mounts correctly.
4. Mount the Arlo Essential Doorbell
Once the mounting plate is securely attached, slide the Arlo Essential Doorbell into place. It should click into the mounting bracket, ensuring it’s fixed properly.
5. Connect the Arlo Essential Doorbell to Wi-Fi
To set up your device, open the Arlo app on your smartphone and follow these steps:
- Tap the “+” icon to add a new device.
- Select “Doorbell” and follow the on-screen instructions to start the setup process.
- You will need to scan the QR code on the back of the Arlo Essential Doorbell to link it to your app.
- Connect the doorbell to your home’s Wi-Fi network by following the prompts in the app.
- After the doorbell is successfully connected, you can name it and set up specific preferences like motion detection and alerts.
6. Test Your Arlo Essential Doorbell
Once your Arlo Essential Doorbell is set up, press the button to ensure the camera feed is working correctly. Check the live video stream from the app to make sure it’s showing a clear image. Test the two-way audio functionality by speaking into the app and listening to the response from the doorbell’s speaker.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing the Arlo Essential Doorbell (Wired Version)
If you opted for the wired version, the installation process is a bit more involved, as it requires connecting the doorbell to your existing doorbell wiring. Here’s how to install the wired Arlo Essential Doorbell:
1. Turn Off the Power to Your Existing Doorbell
Before you start wiring, turn off the power to your existing doorbell at the circuit breaker. This is an essential safety step to avoid electrical accidents.
2. Remove Your Old Doorbell (if applicable)
If you are replacing an old doorbell, remove it by unscrewing the device from the wall. Be sure to keep the wires that are connected to the old doorbell, as they will be used for the new Arlo Essential Doorbell.
3. Install the Mounting Plate
Take the mounting plate included with your wired Arlo Essential Doorbell and position it where you want to mount the doorbell. Use the provided screws to secure it to the wall. Again, be sure to use a level to ensure everything is straight.
4. Connect the Wires to the Arlo Essential Doorbell
Now, connect the wires from your existing doorbell to the back of the Arlo Essential Doorbell. The device will have clearly marked connectors (typically Front and Transformer). Attach the wires securely using the screw terminals.
Make sure the wires are tightly fastened to avoid any issues with the connection.
5. Mount the Doorbell
Once the wiring is complete, position the Arlo Essential Doorbell on the mounting plate. It should click into place, and you can gently tug on it to ensure it’s secure.
6. Turn the Power Back On
After everything is connected, go to your circuit breaker and turn the power back on. Your Arlo Essential Doorbell should power on immediately.
7. Set Up in the Arlo App
Open the Arlo app on your smartphone and follow these steps:
- Tap the “+” icon to add a new device and select “Doorbell”.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to scan the QR code on the back of the doorbell and connect it to your Wi-Fi network.
- Once the doorbell is connected, you’ll be able to adjust settings like video quality, motion detection, and alerts.
8. Test the Arlo Essential Doorbell
Press the button on the doorbell to test the video feed and two-way audio. Check the live video feed through the Arlo app to make sure it’s clear, and ensure the doorbell chime works with your home’s existing chime system.
Troubleshooting Tips for the Arlo Essential Doorbell
If you run into issues during installation or setup, here are some troubleshooting steps to help you resolve them:
- No Video Feed: Ensure that your Wi-Fi signal is strong and stable. If necessary, move your router closer to the doorbell or use a Wi-Fi extender.
- Doorbell Not Connecting to Wi-Fi: Double-check that you’ve entered the correct Wi-Fi credentials and that your network is operating on a 2.4GHz frequency (required for the Arlo Essential Doorbell).
- No Audio: If you can’t hear sound during two-way communication, check that your phone’s microphone and speaker are working properly. Also, verify that volume settings are turned up on both the app and the doorbell.
- Motion Detection Not Working: Check the settings in the app and ensure motion detection is enabled. You can also adjust the motion sensitivity and define specific activity zones to improve accuracy.
Why Choose the Arlo Essential Doorbell?
The Arlo Essential Doorbell offers several key benefits:
- HD Video Quality: Enjoy crisp 1536p HD video with a 180° viewing angle.
- Two-Way Audio: Communicate with visitors remotely, whether you’re home or away.
- Integrated Motion Detection: Get alerts and view motion-activated recordings on the app.
- Easy Installation: Set it up with or without wiring, depending on your preference.
- Smart Home Integration: Works with Alexa and Google Assistant for added convenience.
- Free Cloud Storage: Enjoy 3 hours of video history without a subscription.